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Maintaining a Mellow Mood with Your Baby

In a perfect world, your new baby would have come with a user manual. Who wouldn’t want one of those when the little one’s on a crying jag that just won't quit? If the routine diaper change and burping won’t calm him or her down, here are a few extra soothing steps you can try to reestablish a mellow mood.

Keep them cozy. Newborns are used to the snug quarters of mom’s belly, and the newfound liberation of their arms can faze them a little. Toting them around in a cozy baby carrier can be both comforting for them and a great way for you to go about your daily business.

Keep them busy. The noise and visual stimulation of a floor gym might be just the thing to distract your baby from a cranky mood. Many gyms have plenty of bells and whistles to keep baby really busy.

Be on the move. Babies love to keep it moving — but mom and dad's sleep deprivation isn't always conducive to constant cruising. When your stroller arms start to get tired, or you simply have stuff to do, a cozy bouncer or swing is a great, hands-free way to keep a baby meltdown at bay.

Pass them off. Sometimes the only thing that will placate your baby is letting somebody else soothe them for a few minutes. Let a friend or family member hold your little bambino for a bit. At the very least, this gives you some time to regroup and relax!

Viv Schaffel

Our parenting advice is given as suggestions only. We recommend you also consult your healthcare provider, and urge you to contact them immediately if your question is urgent or about a medical condition.